Caffeine powder banned to anyone under 18 in Suffolk County
Suffolk County lawmakers approved a ban on powdered caffeine Tuesday. Lawmakers call the substance downright dangerous for teens. According to the FDA, a single teaspoon of the powdered pure caffeine
News 12 Staff
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Oct 8, 2014, 6:00 AM
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Updated 3,498 days ago
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Suffolk County lawmakers approved a ban on powdered caffeine Tuesday.
Lawmakers call the substance downright dangerous for teens. According to the FDA, a single teaspoon of the powdered pure caffeine is equivalent of at least 25 cups of coffee.
Dr. William Lawson says the powder can have side effects like nausea, vomiting and diarrhea.
So far, at least one death has been linked to the powerful powder. Ohio wrestler and prom king Logan Stiner died just days before graduation.
According to package labeling, the recommended dosage is only 1/16th of a teaspoon. It's an amount medical experts say is nearly impossible to measure accurately.
Suffolk lawmakers unanimously approved a law banning the substance for anyone under 18. The move is the first in the nation that bans powdered caffeine from minors.
Caffeine powder is currently sold as a dietary supplement and not subject to the same federal regulations as certain caffeinated foods.
At least one U.S. senator is already calling on the FDA to ban caffeine powder nationwide.
The FDA issued a warning and said it is investigating the supplement and will "consider taking regulatory action."
